Spoiler alert: HELL YES and honestly — it’s a question I can answer with every ounce of excitement in me: this experience changed everything.
Earlier this month, I packed my bags, hopped on a plane to Dripping Springs, Texas, and joined the Boudoir Social Club Retreat hosted by two absolute icons in the boudoir photography world, Heather, photographer at Haus of Her, and Allie photographer at BoudoirXAllie. And let me tell you, this was not your average “sit in a conference room with stale coffee and take notes” kind of workshop. This was the crème de la crème of retreats!
It Was The Dreamiest Setting for a Boudoir Retreat
Imagine this: a huge, tranquil mansion in the heart of Texas, complete with a dreamy pool, cozy Chesterfield sofas, and even a private chef. The setting alone felt like a retreat for the soul. Add in baby goat yoga (I kid you not!), cocktails, swings, hammocks, endless laughter, it became the ultimate mix of relaxation and inspiration. This wasn’t just about boudoir photography; it was about creating space to connect, grow, and reset.
Learning From the Best at a Boudoir Photography Retreat
Heather and Allie are two photographers I’ve admired since before I even picked up a camera. Meeting them in person? Fan-girl dream come true (pinching myself countless times to check it was all really happening!).
And the best part?
They shared everything, I mean EVERYTHING. No gatekeeping, no holding back, just total openness about their businesses, from pricing structures to processes and the way they run their studios so successfully. Every single question I asked was answered!
Their honesty and generosity with the knowledge they’ve gained was life-changing. (not to sound dramatic, but really, it was.) The clarity and direction I walked away with will take Boudoir by Laurette to an entirely new level, and I’m so excited!
Finding My People
One of the most valuable parts of this boudoir retreat was the people. A group of photographers all on the same journey, with the same passion for boudoir photography. We clicked instantly, supporting and inspiring one another like we’d known each other for years. I found a real connection with these women and quickly realised we’re all on the same voyage.
Retreats like this remind me that learning together is powerful, and when you surround yourself with people who “get it,” magic happens, friendships form, and you’ve instantly got someone in your corner!
Shooting Beside the Masters (and Being Shot Myself!)
The retreat allowed me to shoot alongside Heather and Allie, watching how they work in real time, so much value in this alone. There were also the most incredible models to photograph (portfolio gold!), and I learned so many new shooting techniques and even shot for the first time outdoors!
And then…
I stepped in front of the camera myself. Picture me, in a black swimsuit (looking hot as hell, I might add), climbing up onto a table and working it like never before. When I saw the photos that Allie took and the slow-motion video Heather created.
I thought: Is that even me?!
It was wild, empowering, and honestly, a reminder of why I believe so deeply in what I do. A boudoir session has the power to show you a side of yourself you never knew existed.
Baby Goats + Big Inspiration
I’ve gotta tell you more about the Baby Goats. Between shooting, inspirational classes, and a bucket load of laughter, there were baby goats.
I can’t explain how nourishing, hilarious, and joyful that was. Trust me when I say it filled me right back up. If anyone ever suggests doing Goat Yoga, jump on it immediately; you won’t regret it!
So… Was Booking a Boudoir Retreat Worth It?
Every. Single. Penny.
This boudoir photography retreat gave me clarity, confidence, inspiration, and portfolio work that will continue to grow my business for years to come. More importantly, it reminded me why I do what I do: to help women feel empowered, confident, and blown away when they see themselves in a whole new light.
Would I do it again? Absolutely — in a heartbeat.
Ready for Your Own Boudoir Experience?
If reading this has you wondering whether you might be due for a boudoir session, I wrote a MUST-READ Blog called 10 Signs You’re Long Overdue For a Boudoir Session (And You Don’t Even Know It Yet!)
And if you’re ready to step into the next level of yourself with me, this is where you need to go!
Because whether it’s on a table in Texas or in my studio, boudoir photography is all about seeing yourself as the powerful, beautiful woman you already are.
Full credit to the creator of this slow-mo: Heather, owner and lead photographer at Haus of Her
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